Aiming for health: How sports ensures physical and mental well-being

A RECENT STUDY HAS OBSERVED THAT PEOPLE INDULGE WHO IN TEAM SPORTS HAVE LESS STRESS BETTER AND HEALTH MENTAL AS YOUNG ADULTS

So many of us are ardent fans of physical sports, be it playing or watching it. The natural association between physical sports and fitness is obvious, but what one may not know is that sports can also help improve mental health.

A study conducted by the Journal of Adolescent Health revealed that people who play team sports have less stress and better mental health as young adults. The study also found that playing sports results in developing a heightened emphasis on setting and achieving group goals, and develops a sense of connection that provides an opportunity for learning adaptive coping strategies, which are beneficial for long-term mental health.

Here are some ways in which physical sports can positively impact your mental health.

BOOSTS YOUR MOOD

Indulging in physical activity triggers the release of chemicals called endorphins and serotonin. This chemical makes you feel happy and reduces stress. This in turn reduces the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as the mood uplifter neurotransmitter, called norepinephrine, gets stimulated. So, the next time you are playing your favourite sport, and wonder why you are feeling relaxed, you now know that serotonin and endorphins are kicking in to boost your mood!

SELF-ESTEEM AND CONFIDENCE

Sports require setting up targets, coordinating with team members, and working towards accomplishing those goals. This process is rewarding, as it empowers players to perform well and have fun at the same time. This helps boost confidence levels and self-esteem, as feelings of self-worth increase with every game.

HELPS INCREASE FOCUS LEVELS

It’s not all fun and physical fitness when it comes to sports. Physical sports require high reaction times, and the ability to foresee certain situations during a game. This means cognitive skills such as critical thinking and the ability to concentrate are regularly exercised and sharpened while playing.

COUNTERACTS DEPRESSIVE AND ANXIETY SYMPTOMS

Exercising and indulging in physical sports can play the role of a natural antidepressant. This happens due to the release of endorphins, which plunges the levels of cortisol, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. According to a study published by a journal Psychiatria Danubina, continuous exercise is linked to preventing relapse into depression and is an effective way to manage mild depressive and anxiety episodes.